For years, 4K TVs have been around, yet consumers haven't fully embraced them when purchasing medium to large-sized TVs. Meanwhile, smart TVs have become the norm for this category. However, recent news has shaken things up. During ChinaJoy 2017, Sharp unveiled their 8K TVs and showcased their premium TV offerings.
Take a look at this 70-inch 8K TV debuting at the event:
Foxconn’s vision for 8K TVs extends beyond just the display; these sets come packed with enhanced smart capabilities. From upstream video resources and photographic equipment to LCD panel production and consumer-focused TV products, Foxconn and Sharp have made significant strides in the 8K ecosystem. Despite Sharp's efforts, it seems unlikely that 8K will catch on anytime soon. Here's why:
Firstly, from a visual standpoint, 8K doesn't seem to cater to mainstream TV sizes. Consumers are more likely to invest in TVs that meet their immediate needs, like a larger screen for better viewing experiences, or something that triggers a desire for clearer picture quality. While 8K fits the latter category, its practical applications are less promising. Back in 2012, during the early stages of 4K TV adoption, I tried out a Sony 4K TV. Surprisingly, even at 55 inches, the difference in quality was noticeable. For 8K to truly shine, you'd need a screen size of at least 110 inches for the same viewing distance, which is impractical for most households.
This year's TV market has seen a shift towards bigger screens, with the average size surpassing 43 inches, and 55 inches becoming the most popular segment. The fastest-growing segment this year is 65 inches, with sales rising by 207% year-over-year. While consumers are eager for larger screens, there's still uncertainty about how to effectively incorporate 80-inch TVs into living spaces. Even during LeTV's aggressive marketing phase, they used 120-inch TVs as a novelty rather than a practical feature. Few consumers would go through the hassle of breaking walls or windows to fit such a massive set. The appeal of 8K lies in the ability to showcase its benefits on larger screens, which is why Sharp's initial 8K offering remains within the 85-inch range, catering to a niche audience.
Another challenge facing 8K TVs is the increased cost associated with higher resolutions. Many assume that as technology advances, the price gap between Full HD and 4K will diminish. However, this isn't the case with 8K. Higher resolution demands stronger backlighting, which leads to exponential increases in power consumption and cost. This explains why LG introduced RGBW/WRGB panels—to balance power consumption and cost while compromising on screen quality. Given these factors, the pricing of 8K TVs is bound to be steep.
Moreover, the practicality of 8K content remains questionable. The introduction of each new video format depends not just on hardware but also on the availability of compatible content. Currently, much of the content available over traditional broadcast networks is still in 720p, while mainstream video sites offer mostly 1080p content. Even among China’s leading 4K content providers, high-quality 4K content remains scarce. Pushing for 8K without adequate support from content providers is a gamble, as it's unclear whether consumers will be willing to pay premium prices for a format that lacks sufficient content.
With Foxconn's acquisition of Sharp, the "Guo boss" has invested heavily in reviving the brand. From competitive pricing strategies to extensive advertising campaigns, Sharp has made significant efforts to boost sales. However, these efforts have come at a cost, both financially and in terms of brand value. As production scales up, maintaining profitability becomes challenging. Without substantial improvements in content availability, reduced power consumption, and affordable pricing, it's unlikely that 8K TVs will gain widespread acceptance anytime soon.
So, instead of waiting for 8K, consider purchasing a smart TV or box that suits your current needs. For those interested in smart TV and box updates, visit the influential TV box and smart TV website, Sofa Butler (http://), for the latest information, reviews, and discussions.
In conclusion, while 8K holds promise, its practical adoption faces numerous hurdles. It might be wise to prioritize more accessible technologies until the ecosystem catches up.
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